To inculcate the spirit of national identity in conjunction with Malaysia Independence Day, Student & Alumni Centre (SAC) at KDU University College organised the ‘Road to 60’s: I am Malaysian’ programme, with initiative to bring students to different states (Malacca, Penang, Terengganu, and Selangor & Kuala Lumpur) in Malaysia, to learn and experience the different cultures and embrace diversity throughout this journey.

The third road trip was to Terengganu which took place from the 21 to 23 July 2017. Seven students from KDU had participated in this fruitful event together with two SAC staff.

The troop embarked on the journey as early as 6 a.m. Upon arrival, their first stop was the Islamic Civilization Park followed by River Cruise. This unique theme park demonstrates the achievement of Islamic architecture, particularly superlative craftsmanship of the Crystal Mosque. Boarded onto the boats for River Cruise, students got to explore the beauty and scenery of Kuala Terengganu town while they sailed along Terengganu River. After having dinner at late evening, they were then been brought to Pantai Batu Burok for supper.

Their second day started off with a morning visit to Pasar Payang, a well-known market in Kuala Terengganu which located by the Terengganu River. The market offers visitors a variety of traditional handicrafts such as batik, silk, songket, brocade and brassware, as well as fresh produce. Afternoon tour was to the Terengganu State Museum, the largest museum in South East Asia which houses century old artefacts and artworks of rich and colourful heritage.

In the evening, the students headed to Nor Arfa Craft Complex, which with a retail store mainly for batik-wear and souvenirs; and also a place to get an insight and understanding on how songket is weaved, batik is painted, and glass is shaped into various gifts. Here, the students had the opportunity to do batik DIY by experiencing drawing – ‘batik canting’ and batik colouring. They were then able to bring back their own crafts as a souvenir.

On the last day, KDU students were brought to the SMK Sultan Sulaiman together with their counsellor, to run a Diversity Workshop for the students there. Around 38 form four students participated in that workshop. The objective of the workshop was to create awareness of diversity and the importance of accepting and appreciating diversity, as well as to provide the high school students with knowledge that will help them to embrace diversity. Most importantly, to instil the spirit of embracing diversity among the future young leaders and be able to spread to the community.

“The trip to Terengganu was amazing. It was really fun as it has helped me to learn more about Malaysia and its Culture,” said Charnelle Natalie Gugulethu Maphosa, a Cerificate in Hotel Operations student.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to join the road trip to Terengganu. It was such a great trip I have ever been with friends. The people in Terrengganu are really friendly. There are a lot of pretty places to visit in Terengganu. I will definitely come again next time with family and friends,” enthused Izyan Hanani binti Ahmad Zabidi, who studies Diploma in Accountancy at KDU.

In order to inculcate the values of diversity and inclusion amongst KDU students, a comprehensive and ongoing learning process will be included in various events organises under KDU’s Culturation, with concept of embracing diversity. Hence, the end of the journey marks not the end of the journey but the beginning of it.